Indian Army Embarks on a Decade of Transformation, Merging Tradition with Cutting-Edge Warfare

The Indian Army stands on the threshold of a historic transformation, blending its time-tested battlefield strengths with the demands of modern, technology-driven warfare. Under the ambitious Decade of Transformation initiative (2023–2032), the force is set to introduce sweeping structural and operational changes — from multi-domain all-arms brigades and exclusive drone units to new special forces-style battalions and integrated guns-and-drones formations.

Announced by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi during Vijay Diwas on July 26, the first phase of this transformation is already being implemented as India approaches its 79th year of independence. Central to this reorganisation are concepts such as Rudra, Bhairav, Shaktibaan, and Divyastra, each designed to enhance combat readiness across land, air, and digital domains.

Bhairav Battalions — Shock Troops for Rapid Action

‘Bhairav’ — a name derived from the formidable form of Lord Shiva — will consist of specialised battalions tasked with high-intensity, short-notice operations. Designed to execute shock-and-awe missions, these units will carry out rapid surprise strikes, cross-border raids, and tactical disruptions, thereby allowing the elite special forces to focus on high-priority strategic objectives.

According to sources, by the end of August, the Army aims to raise five fully operational Bhairav Battalions. Their role is envisioned as a critical link between elite special forces and regular infantry units.

Rudra Brigades — Integrated All-Arms Combat Power

The Rudra brigades will be fully integrated formations comprising infantry, artillery, and armoured elements. With both enhanced firepower and greater mobility, these units are designed for multi-domain operations, enabling rapid deployment and sustained offensive action. Two brigades have already been converted into Rudra formations, marking an important step toward a more agile, combat-ready force.

Drone Warfare Becomes Mainstream

In a major leap toward network-centric warfare, every infantry battalion will be equipped with a dedicated drone platoon by the end of August. These platoons will provide real-time surveillance, target acquisition, and precision-strike capabilities, greatly enhancing operational reach and flexibility.

Shaktibaan and Divyastra — Redefining Artillery Power

The transformation extends deeply into artillery doctrine.

• Divyastra Batteries — Integrating conventional artillery with drones, loitering munitions, and precision-strike technologies, these hybrid formations will enable deep-strike capability, real-time target tracking, and high-accuracy engagement of both stationary and mobile threats. The first phase will see at least five artillery regiments equipped with a Divyastra battery each.

• Shaktibaan Units — Purely technology-driven artillery regiments focusing exclusively on drones and loitering munitions for “see-and-strike” operations. Unlike Divyastra batteries, Shaktibaan units will not use conventional guns, making them specialised unmanned strike formations.

A Force Ready for the Future

General Dwivedi emphasised that the Indian Army is “effectively addressing contemporary challenges while rapidly advancing as a transformed, modern, and future-oriented force.” The recent Operation Sindoor — a decisive retaliatory action following the Pahalgam terror attack — served as a demonstration of this evolving capability, showcasing both offensive strength and defensive resilience.

As these changes take root, military analysts believe that the Indian Army’s evolving structure will significantly bolster its ability to deter, respond, and prevail in both conventional and hybrid warfare scenarios along India’s contested borders.